Free To Tame a Renegade by Connie Mason Page B

Carrie something to make her sleep and she’ll be dropping off soon. Charlie can handle the children until Carrie’s on her feet again. Go on home, I’ll be there directly.”
    Sarah headed for the door, then paused when Charlie hobbled from the bedroom and motioned to Chad.
    “Carrie asked to see you, Mr. Delaney. Make it quick, she’s exhausted.”
    “Are you sure she asked to see me?” Chad wanted to know.
    “Yeah, very sure. Go on in.”
    Chad glanced at Sarah, shrugged, then entered the bedroom. Carrie looked very small and fragile lying in the big bed. A tiny bundle rested in her arms, nuzzling at her breast.
    “You wanted to see me?”
    Carrie looked up, a worried look on her face. “It’s about the money you gave me to help Sarah. The baby came early and I won’t be able to live up to our agreement.” She flushed and looked away. “I already spent the money on food. I’m sorry. As soon as Charlie is on his feet again we’ll pay you back.”
    “Keep the money, Mrs. Barlow,” Chad said gruffly. “You need it more than I do.”
    “Who will assist Sarah? She’s so… helpless… and she has no one.” Her eyes were glazing over and it was obvious the laudanum was taking effect.
    “Don’t worry about Sarah. I’ll take care of her.” No sooner had the words left his mouth than the portent of what he said dawned on him. He had just committed himself, something he’d vowed never to do again.
    Sarah couldn’t imagine why Chad Delaney was still here. It worried her. Men like Chad didn’t do anything without wanting something in return. He’d already admitted he wanted her sexually. His thrilling kisses had made her forget the fragile state of her reputation. She didn’t need a man in her life, especially one who was bound to be here today and gone tomorrow. Chad Delaney wanted one thing from her. What she didn’t understand was why he just didn’t take it while she was helpless and then leave for parts unknown. That’s what Freddie Jackson had done.
    Sarah retired to the bedroom directly after supper. Abner and Chad were still in the kitchen doing up the dishes. Very carefully she pulled out the dresser drawer with her bandaged hands and removed her nightgown, feeling very satisfied with herself for being able to do at least that much on her own. The last thing she wanted was for Chad to undress her.
    Sarah gazed in dismay at the several buttons marching down the front of her dress. Her burns no longer pained her like they did shortly after the accident, but manipulating the buttons was beyond her meager capabilities. She wanted to scream in frustration.
    Chad knocked once and entered the room. Sarah blinked away her tears. Being dependent on a man for things she had done herself all her life angered her. She didn’t want to be indebted to anyone.
    “Can I help?” Chad asked as he lit the lamp Sarah hadn’t been able to manage on her own.
    “Where’s Abner?”
    “He fell asleep on the sofa while I was finishing up in the kitchen. I’ll put him on the trundle as soon as you’re settled in bed.”
    “I think I’ll sleep in my clothing tonight.”
    His big hands moved to the buttons on her bodice. “You’ll rest more comfortably without your dress.”
    Sarcasm fairly dripped from her words. “What did I ever do to deserve such kindness?”
    Chad grinned. “Nothing that I’m aware of. I’m here because I’m responsible for your accident and I can’t find anyone to help you. Now be quiet and let me concentrate on these buttons.”
    Sarah’s lips clamped together as Chad’s hands moved over her breasts. His touch was light, experienced, and she wondered how many women he’d undressed in his lifetime. Plenty, she’d wager. She tried to remain stoic but the tingling sensation in those places he’d touched gave her butterflies in the pit of her stomach.
    “Can’t you hurry?”
    “There,” Chad said, releasing the last button. “I’ll just work your dress down your arms and